In a strategic move to strengthen educational ties with India, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon unveiled a scholarship package worth NZD 260,000 (approx. ₹1.3 crore) under the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) 2025 during his visit to IIT Delhi. The announcement signals a renewed push to attract Indian talent to New Zealand’s universities.
The NZEA 2025 is a scholarship programme managed by Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao, in collaboration with the country’s eight top universities. The initiative offers 29 scholarships to Indian students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees across various disciplines, with scholarship amounts ranging from NZD 5,000 to NZD 20,000 aimed at easing tuition costs and promoting Indian student enrolment.
Eligibility criteria for NZEA applicants include reviewing individual university requirements on their respective websites, with the application deadline set for April 30, 2025. Participating universities include some of the leading educational institutions in New Zealand, enhancing the opportunities available to eligible students.
Currently, around 7,300 Indian students are enrolled in various courses in New Zealand, boosted by the country’s affordable tuition compared to other Western nations and the promise of post-study work opportunities for international graduates.
In addition to the scholarship package, the New Zealand government also announced a Virtual Internship Programme that will allow 30 IIT Delhi students to work remotely with New Zealand firms. This initiative not only provides practical work experience but also serves to deepen academic cooperation between the two countries.
Further, several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed to promote academic collaboration and ensure a smoother transition for Indian students as they navigate their educational journeys in New Zealand.
Significant policy changes regarding the Post Study Work Visa (PSWV) have also taken place, expanding eligibility for students completing 30-week postgraduate diplomas who then continue to Master’s programs. This change allows them to qualify for PSWV depending on their diploma duration, with a full three-year visa requiring at least 30 weeks of Master’s-level study, subject to holding a qualifying New Zealand degree and meeting timing and duration criteria.
This series of initiatives manifests a clear intention by the New Zealand government to forge stronger educational partnerships with India, thus enhancing the mutual benefits of increased student mobility and enriching cultural exchanges.
Simultaneously, another significant initiative has been launched, as University Living and Acumen announced a $2.4 million (approximately ₹2 crore) 'Living Scholarships' program intended to support Indian students studying abroad. This fund aims to assist students in managing their living expenses and securing accommodation during their academic journeys in countries like the UK, Ireland, Australia, the US, and Canada.
The Rs 2 crore scholarship fund is set to be rolled out across more than 50 partner universities of Acumen and University Living, enabling students to concentrate on their studies without the stress of initial costs. Beginning March 2025, enrolled students will qualify for living scholarships that will provide them with complimentary accommodation for up to a month.
This added support is crucial given the rising costs associated with living abroad. According to University Living’s Indian Student Mobility Report 2024, spending on accommodation by Indian students has soared, increasing dramatically. Spending in the United States rose from $1.9 billion to $2.4 billion; in Canada, it increased from $1.7 billion to $1.8 billion; Australia witnessed a rise from $0.8 billion to $1.2 billion; and the UK saw a leap from $0.4 billion to $1.4 billion between 2019 and 2022.
Saurabh Arora, CEO of University Living, stated, “University Living has always had a student-first approach, and this is another way for us to give back to the student community. We believe that financial challenges should not be a barrier to achieving your dreams.” This sentiment echoes the struggles many international students face when adapting to life in a new country, especially during their initial months.
Sagar Bahadur, Executive Director – South and Southeast Asia at Acumen, emphasized the importance of this initiative by saying, “Studying abroad can be overwhelming, especially during the initial months. With this groundbreaking partnership, we’re not just helping students find a place to stay; we’re offering them peace of mind and the confidence they need to thrive academically and socially from day one.” These words resonate deeply with the current generation of students facing mounting pressures as they embark on their educational journeys.
The collaboration aims to make international education more accessible and supportive for Indian students by alleviating the financial burden associated with finding suitable housing abroad and smoothing their transition into university life.
As efforts continue to bolster educational programs and partnerships, these two initiatives reflect a broader commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for Indian students pursuing their academic aspirations in New Zealand and beyond.
